Keywords

Departments/Programs

Chemistry and Chemical Biology

Graduate Fields

Applied Physics

Chemistry and Chemical Biology

Research

As the silicon based devices approach their fundamental size limits, the world is turning to nanoscale science to continue the modern electronics evolution. One of the most impressive results of this effort is the development of devices based on nanoscale materials, which often exhibit excellent characteristics that are comparable, and in some cases even superior, to the properties of traditional semiconductors.

Our group's main research interest is to explore fundamental physics and chemistry in the nanometer scale by investigating electrical, optical and thermal properties of individual nanostructures, including single molecules, nanocrystals, nanowires, carbon nanotubes, and their arrays. In particular, we are most interested in studying how fundamental physical quanta ? electrons, photons and phonons are coupled to each other in the nanometer scale and how we can apply this knowledge for future technological advances.

This research field is multidisciplinary in nature; exploring physical properties of individual structures involves addressing key scientific issues regarding: 1) smarter materials synthesis and device design, 2) advanced nanoscale characterization of electrical and optical properties, and 3) rational strategy for integration with the external measurements setup. The mastery of these issues is essential not only to create novel electronic and optical devices, but it also has the potential to impact other major disciplines including materials science, physical sciences, electrical engineering and bioengineering.